Need a leak detector probe that can be connected to PLC. Do not want the usual control panel associated with probe (like VeederRoot, PetroVend, etc).

Need to monitor a sump to detect if any level of liwuid is present (water, oil, gas, etc). Need to trigger at about 1cm level. Also want to tie this to a PLC and NOT use the typical control panels that traditional sensors seem to require.

Any suggestions?
Thanks.

 

Hello
A simple cost effective level switch may do. It simply connects to a relay. The closed cell buna will work well in hydrocarbons or water. A new model allows the actual float to sit directly on the bottom. – or not. For a sump – you may want to use the stainless probe – buna float with a bracket that bolts to the wall. Or it can be made longer to attach higher up. The units switch rating is 250 V 0.5A resistive and will work well with a relay. Interface floats are also available. The product is not on line but one for dirty applications is at:
"http://www.almegcontrols.com/dirty_application_sensor.htm":http://www.almegcontrols.com/dirty_application_sensor.htm

Thanks Bob Hogg

 

We are using a unit by RAYCHEM, they offer a low cost DIN-RAIL "transmitter" which provides "fault" and "wet" relay outputs.

Much less than full panels, but with the testing and applications support.

Also you can use a standard ultrasonic gap unit Magnetrol/Cosense/ E&H. Just be careful if you have hydrocarbons, you will need I/S barriers or XP conduits. I think the raychem includes the I/S circuitry in the detctor cable interface.

Steven Landau
VP Controls & Automation
SPEC Process Engineering and Construction, Inc.
17 A Street
Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: (781) 221-0123
Fax: (781) 221-7212

 

Responding to Bill Townsley's query and Bob Hogg's reply:

If oil and gas are present be aware that the classification is usually Class I, Div 1 for sumps. However, if adequately ventilated or
pressurized, then classificaton can be Div 2. In either case, the sensor must be "approved!"

Regards,
Phil Corso, PE
(Boca Raton, FL)